Bundesliga clubs hunt for KRC Genk defender Josue Kongolo

In the Cegeka Arena the young central defender Josue Kongolo often stands in the shadow of the strikers, but his recent two goals against Antwerp and SK Beveren have attracted the attention of German clubs. The 20‑year‑old has quickly worked his way up to become a regular at KRC Genk.

Rapid rise to first‑team regular

Kongolo already got chances in the starting lineup last season, but is now for the first time a full‑fledged starter. Together with Matte Smets he forms the central duo weekly, which has seen him definitively break through into the first team. He played forty matches for Jong Genk; he has now made 37 appearances for the first team. His profile is particularly attractive to clubs in the Bundesliga; speed and footballing ability, plus a background as a forward, make him an eye‑catching central defender. Which German clubs are concretely showing interest, however, remains unclear.

Contract and market value

His contract at the Cegeka Arena runs until June 2028. Transfermarkt estimates his market value at €3.5 million, but given his age, contract length and status as a first‑team regular, the real value is presumably higher. For Genk this is both good and bad news: a young player breaks through, but quickly attracts foreign interest.

In addition to club performances Kongolo has also shown himself in the Belgian U21 team, which further strengthens his profile. The Limburgers are tenth with nine points after seven matchdays, after a disappointing start. After the international break there must be a quick improvement.

On 10 October KRC Genk host KV Kortrijk at the Cegeka Arena; a good match gives Kongolo the chance to once again show why he is increasingly appearing on foreign lists.